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RI S2860
Bill
Status
3/4/2026
Primary Sponsor
Lammis Vargas
Click for details
AI Summary
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Rhode Island Department of Health must implement an evidence-based tobacco control program for prevention and cessation, with statewide surveillance tracking progress against benchmarks including 9.9% adult smoking rate, 17.3% youth tobacco use rate, and 16.5% youth e-cigarette rate.
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Department must conduct ongoing public awareness campaigns using multiple media approaches, based on professional market research, to prevent tobacco initiation and promote quitting.
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Grant program established to fund health education, tobacco cessation, and enforcement programs, with priority given to populations at high risk of starting tobacco use or developing tobacco-related diseases.
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Funding beginning July 1, 2026 set at the greater of 5% of annual cigarette and tobacco products tax revenues, or $3.2 million with 5% annual increases to meet CDC-recommended funding levels.
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Annual evaluation of all program components required to be submitted to the General Assembly and Director of Health.
Legislative Description
Requires the department of health to implement a tobacco control program that incorporates evidence-based best practices for tobacco prevention and cessation to prevent tobacco-related diseases and diminish tobacco use in the state.
Health And Safety
Last Action
Committee recommended measure be held for further study
3/10/2026